Senior Aerospace Propulsion Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,976,000 - 2,964,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible remote work

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Aerospace Propulsion Engineer to join a fully remote engineering team. The role focuses on design, analysis, and testing of advanced propulsion systems for next-generation aircraft, with collaboration across a global network of experts.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in propulsion, a Master’s or PhD in a related field, and strong CFD/FEA proficiency. Remote work offers flexible hours, with opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking engine technologies.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in aerospace/mechanical engineering with propulsion specialization.
• 7+ years hands-on propulsion design and analysis experience.
• Proficient with CFD/FEA tools such as ANSYS or STAR-CCM+.
• Strong written and verbal communication for remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design and detailed analysis of propulsion systems (jet engines, turboprops, novel concepts).
• Perform thermodynamic, aerodynamic, and structural analyses with advanced tools.
• Develop and validate propulsion performance models.
• Assist in component selection and integration for optimal system performance.
• Collaborate remotely with cross-functional teams to ensure feasibility and manufacturability.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to stakeholders.
• Mentor junior engineers and share propulsion expertise.
• Stay current with propulsion research and validate with virtual testing data.

Skills

Propulsion design

CFD/FEA

Remote work

Technical reporting

7+ years propulsion

Education

MS/PhD propulsion

Tools

ANSYS

STAR-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering entity in aerospace innovation, is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Aerospace Propulsion Engineer to join their elite, fully remote engineering team. This position is designed for an individual who thrives in a decentralized work environment and possesses a profound expertise in the design, analysis, and testing of advanced aircraft propulsion systems. Working remotely from your base, you will play a critical role in conceptualizing and developing next-generation engine technologies that push the boundaries of efficiency, performance, and sustainability. As a key member of our client's virtual engineering division, you will collaborate with a global network of experts, contributing significantly to projects that define the future of flight. This is a unique chance to leverage your extensive knowledge and passion for propulsion in a flexible, home-based capacity, driving innovation without geographical constraints.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptual design and detailed analysis of advanced aircraft propulsion systems, including jet engines, turboprops, and novel propulsion concepts.
• Perform complex thermodynamic, aerodynamic, and structural analyses using advanced simulation tools (e.g., CFD, FEA).
• Develop and validate mathematical models for propulsion system performance and component behavior.
• Contribute to the selection and integration of propulsion components, ensuring optimal system performance and reliability.
• Collaborate remotely with manufacturing, materials science, and systems engineering teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and findings to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on propulsion-related challenges.
• Stay current with the latest research, technologies, and trends in aerospace propulsion.
• Participate in virtual testing and validation efforts, analyzing test data to verify design predictions.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field with a specialization in propulsion.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in aerospace propulsion system design and analysis.
• Proficiency in using industry-standard simulation software such as ANSYS, STAR-CCM+, or similar for CFD and FEA.
• Strong understanding of gas turbine engine cycles, component design (compressors, turbines, combustors), and performance characteristics.
• Experience with engine testing and data acquisition is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective remote collaboration and technical documentation.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote setting.
• Must have a reliable high‑speed internet connection and a suitable home office environment in Rustenburg, North West, ZA or willing to relocate to a suitable remote location.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and the demands of a remote, senior role.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking propulsion technologies shaping the future of aviation.
• Flexible working hours and the autonomy of a fully remote position.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits program.
• Retirement savings plan with attractive employer contributions.
• Generous professional development budget for continued learning and skill enhancement.
• Access to a collaborative and innovative virtual work environment.